JP2002183093A - Controller, method for controlling the same and storage medium - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a security system which improves security in the case of operating a device and is safety and good to use by allowing an operator to change a usable function in accordance with a security level. SOLUTION: Based on which authentication method among a plurality of different authentication methods of an authentication part 6 is sued for the purpose of authenticating the operator, an operation part picture control part 51 differentiates function display which can be indicated by an operation part picture 52 to restrict an indicate-able operation mode in accordance with the authentication method.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an operation input screen capable of instructing an operation mode of an apparatus by instructing a function display on a screen, and an operation of the apparatus based on the operation mode instructed from the operation input screen. More particularly, the present invention relates to a control device applicable to a copier or the like operable by an unspecified number of operators, a control method of the control device, and a storage medium.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, even in a normal office environment,
Instead of black and white copiers, the use of color copiers is becoming more common. Also, year by year, the quality of color copiers has been improved,
Higher functions have been developed, and models having considerably complicated editing functions have appeared on the market.

Conventionally, devices such as color copiers include:
Some devices have a security function that enables the device to operate only when a switch is operated by a management key or when a password is input, thereby restricting unauthorized use of the device by outsiders.

[0004]

However, since the operation restriction by the management key restricts the use of the apparatus by using hardware called the management key, it can be said that the operation is safe from the viewpoint of security. , The user of the device
Since it is necessary to operate the management key every time the device is used, it can be said that the method is inconvenient for the user.

[0005] In addition, there is a problem that the operation restriction based on the security code has no meaning when the security code is leaked, and it is easy to cause a situation equivalent to the case where the security function is not practically restricted.

The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and an object of the first to twelfth inventions according to the present invention is to authenticate an operator by a plurality of different authentication methods. The authentication unit, based on which authentication method has performed the authentication of the operator, changes the function display that can be instructed by the operation input screen, and restricts the operation mode that can be instructed according to the authentication method. A control device and a control device that can provide a security system that is safe and easy to use while improving security when operating the device by changing the functions that can be used by the operator according to the security level. A method and a storage medium are provided.

[0007]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a control device operable in a plurality of operation modes.
An operator authentication means (authentication unit 6 shown in FIG. 2) capable of authenticating an operator by a plurality of different authentication methods (authentication by inputting a password, authentication by inputting a fingerprint, authentication by inputting an IC card); Control means for restricting usable operation modes based on which authentication method the user has authenticated (the operation unit screen control unit 5 shown in FIG. 2).
1).

According to a second aspect of the present invention, an operation unit (operation unit screen 52 shown in FIG. 2) capable of instructing an operation mode of the apparatus.
And a control unit (control unit 4 shown in FIG. 1) for controlling the operation of the device based on the operation mode instructed by the operation unit, wherein a plurality of authentication units authenticate the operator by different authentication methods. Authentication means (numeric keypad 6 shown in FIG. 2)
1 and a code decoding unit 62, a fingerprint reading unit 63 and a fingerprint authentication unit 64, an IC card reader 65 and an authentication data decoding unit 66), and the authentication unit. And an operation unit control means (operation unit screen control unit 51 shown in FIG. 2) for changing an operation mode instructable from the unit.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided an operation input screen (an operation section screen 52 shown in FIG. 2) capable of instructing an operation mode of the apparatus by instructing a function display on the screen, and the operation input screen. A control unit having a control unit (control unit 4 shown in FIG. 1) for controlling the operation of the device based on the operation mode instructed by a plurality of authentication means (FIG. 2) for authenticating the operator by different authentication methods. Numeric keypad 61 shown
The code input unit 62, the fingerprint reading unit 63 and the fingerprint authentication unit 64, the IC card reader 65 and the authentication data decoding unit 66), and the operation input based on which of the authentication means the operator has been authenticated. An operation input screen control means (FIG. 2) for limiting the instructable operation modes according to the authentication method by differentiating the function display (such as the operation screens shown in FIGS. 3, 5, and 6) that can be specified by the screen. Operating unit screen control unit 51) shown in FIG.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the plurality of authentication means are password authentication means (a numeric keypad 61 and a code decoding unit 62 shown in FIG. 2) for authenticating an operator based on the input password. Fingerprint authentication means (fingerprint reading section 63 and fingerprint authentication section 64 shown in FIG. 2) for authenticating the operator based on the fingerprint information to be obtained, and card authentication means (see FIG. 2) for authenticating the operator based on information read from a predetermined card. I
C card reader 65 and authentication data decryption unit 66).

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an operation input screen (an operation section screen 52 shown in FIG. 2) capable of instructing an operation mode of the apparatus by instructing a function display on the screen, and the operation input screen. In a control device having a control unit (control unit 4 shown in FIG. 1) for controlling the operation of the device based on an operation mode instructed by a user, a first operator authentication unit for authenticating an operator (shown in FIG. 2) Numeric keypad 61 and code decoding unit 6
2) and second operator authentication means (IC card reader 65 and authentication data decoding section 66 shown in FIG. 2) for authenticating the operator by an authentication method different from the first operator authentication means.
And the case where authentication is performed by the first operator authentication unit and the case where authentication is performed by both the first operator authentication unit and the second operator authentication unit (IC
The function display that can be instructed by the operation input screen (as in the operation screens shown in FIGS. 3 and 6) is different between the case where the authentication is performed by inputting the card and the authentication is further performed by inputting the password. An operation input screen control unit (operation unit screen control unit 51 shown in FIG. 2) for restricting an operation mode instructable according to the authentication method.

In a sixth aspect according to the present invention, the operation input screen control means is configured to perform the first operator authentication means more than when the first operator authentication means authenticates an operator. And when the authentication is performed by both the second operator authentication means, the number of operation modes in which the functions that can be instructed from the operation input screen are displayed more and the use is permitted is increased (by inputting a password, When the authentication is performed, the operation screen shown in FIG. 3 is displayed to enable the instruction of the black and white mode. On the other hand, when the authentication is performed by inputting the IC card and the authentication is performed by inputting the personal identification number, FIG. The operation screen shown in the figure is displayed so that full-function instructions including a monochrome mode and a color mode can be specified.)

In a seventh aspect according to the present invention, the control device is a color copying machine, and the operation input screen control means is configured such that when authentication is performed by the first operator authentication means, A black-and-white copying operation mode can be designated, and when authentication is performed by both the first operator authentication unit and the second operator authentication unit, a color copying operation mode is set in addition to the black-and-white copying operation mode. It can be instructed.

In an eighth aspect according to the present invention, the second operator authentication means authenticates an operator based on information read from an IC card (IC card reader 65 shown in FIG. 2).
And an authentication data decryption unit 66).

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an operation input screen capable of instructing an operation mode of the apparatus by instructing a function display on the screen, and an apparatus based on the operation mode instructed from the operation input screen. In the control method of the control device having a control unit for controlling the operation of the above, an authentication step (Step S101 in FIG. 7) of authenticating the operator by any of a plurality of different authentication methods; An operation input screen display step (steps S102 to S109 in FIG. 7) in which, based on whether or not the authentication has been performed, the function display that can be specified by the operation input screen is changed, and the operation mode that can be specified according to the authentication method is limited. ).

According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an operation input screen capable of instructing an operation mode of an apparatus by instructing a function display on a screen, and an apparatus based on the operation mode instructed from the operation input screen. A control unit having a control unit for controlling the operation of the control device, the first authentication method,
Alternatively, an operator authentication step of authenticating an operator by the first authentication method and a second authentication method different from the first authentication method (step S101 in FIG. 9 and S302 in FIG. 10).
And a case where authentication is performed by the first authentication method and a case where authentication is performed by both the first authentication method and the second authentication method. An operation input screen display process for limiting the operation modes that can be instructed according to the authentication method by changing the function display (steps S102 to S106 and S10 in FIG. 9)
8, S109, steps S301, S303 in FIG.
S304).

According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided an operation input screen capable of instructing an operation mode of the apparatus by instructing a function display on the screen, and an apparatus based on the operation mode instructed from the operation input screen. An authentication step (Step S10 in FIG. 7) of authenticating the operator by one of a plurality of different authentication methods to a control device having a control unit that controls the operation of
1) and an operation of differentiating the function display that can be instructed on the operation input screen based on which of the authentication methods has been used to authenticate the operator, and restricting the operation mode that can be instructed according to the authentication method. Input screen display process (Fig. 7
(Steps S102 to S109) are stored in a storage medium in a computer-readable manner.

According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an operation input screen capable of instructing an operation mode of an apparatus by instructing a function display on a screen, and an apparatus based on the operation mode instructed from the operation input screen. And a control unit having a control unit for controlling the operation of the first authentication method, or an operator who authenticates the operator using the first authentication method or a second authentication method different from the first authentication method. An authentication step (step S101 in FIG. 9 and S302 in FIG. 10), a case where authentication is performed by the first authentication method, and a case where authentication is performed by both the first authentication method and the second authentication method An operation input screen displaying step of differentiating the function display that can be specified by the operation input screen depending on the operation input screen and restricting the operation mode that can be specified according to the authentication method (steps S102 to S102 in FIG. 9) 06, S108, S109, FIG. 10
(Steps S301, S303, S304) are stored in a storage medium in a computer-readable manner.

[0019]

Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[First Embodiment] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a color copying apparatus to which a control device according to a first embodiment of the present invention can be applied.

In FIG. 1, reference numeral 1 denotes a scanner which reads an original image and converts it into image data. 2 is an image processing unit,
The image data input from the scanner 1 is subjected to predetermined image processing. Reference numeral 3 denotes a printer that forms (outputs) an image on a recording medium based on image data on which predetermined image processing has been performed by the image processing unit 2. The printer 3 uses a laser beam system, an electrophotographic system (for example, an LED system) other than the laser beam system, a liquid crystal shutter system, an ink jet system, a thermal transfer system, a sublimation system, and other printing systems. The present invention is also applicable.

A control unit 4 includes a CPU 4a and a ROM inside.
4b, a RAM 4c, and the like, and the CPU 4a controls operations of the scanner 1, the image processing unit 2, the printer 3, and the operation unit 5 based on a program stored in the ROM 4b.
The RAM 4c is used as a work area of the CPU 4a.

Reference numeral 5 denotes an operation unit which includes an operation unit screen and various keys, and instructs various settings and operation modes of the apparatus. Reference numeral 6 denotes an authentication unit that authenticates an operator. The details of the operation unit 5 and the authentication unit 6 are shown in FIG. 2 below.

FIG. 2 shows the operation unit 5 and the authentication unit 6 shown in FIG.
2 is a block diagram showing the configuration in detail, and the same components as those in FIG. 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

In the authentication unit 6, reference numeral 61 denotes a ten-key input unit for inputting numerical values by using numerical keys 0 to 9 and an OK key. Reference numeral 62 denotes a code decoding unit which has a non-volatile memory for registering a password therein, decodes the code information output from the numeric keypad input unit 61, and the input password matches the registered password. It determines whether or not to perform, and outputs the determination result to the operation unit 5. The code decoding unit 6
The registration of the personal identification number in the internal nonvolatile memory 2 is performed by, for example, the administrator instructing the personal identification number registration mode from the operation unit 5 and using the ten keys 61.

Reference numeral 63 denotes a fingerprint reading unit, which reads an image of a fingerprint area and inputs fingerprint information by pressing an operator's fingertip. Reference numeral 64 denotes a fingerprint authentication unit which has a nonvolatile memory for registering fingerprint information therein, and determines whether or not the fingerprint information read by the fingerprint reading unit 63 matches the registered fingerprint information. The determination result is output to the operation unit 5. The registration of the fingerprint information in the nonvolatile memory inside the fingerprint authentication unit 64 is performed, for example, by the administrator instructing the fingerprint information registration mode from the operation unit 5 and the fingerprint reading unit 6.
3.

An IC card reader 65 is capable of inserting an IC card, reads data from an information storage area in the inserted IC card, and inputs authentication data. 6
Reference numeral 6 denotes an approval data decoding unit, which has a nonvolatile memory for registering authentication data therein and decodes the authentication data read by the IC card reader 65.
It is determined whether or not it matches the registered authentication data, and the result of the determination is output to the operation unit 5. The registration of the authentication data in the non-volatile memory inside the approval data decoding unit 66 is performed, for example, by the administrator instructing the authentication data registration mode from the operation unit 5 and reading the authentication data from the IC card reader 65, or It is assumed that authentication data is input from the operation unit 5 and the registered authentication data is written to an IC card by an IC card writing device (not shown).

Next, in the operation unit 5, an operation unit screen control unit 51 includes a CPU 51a, a ROM 51b, and a RAM 51.
c, the CPU 51a executes a program stored in the ROM 51b, and displays (outputs) on the operation unit screen 52
Control. The RAM 51c is used as a work area of the CPU 51a. Also, the operation unit screen control unit 51
Is connected to the code decoding unit 62, the fingerprint authentication unit 64, the authentication data decoding unit 66, and the operation unit screen 52 of the authentication unit 6, and is transmitted from the code decoding unit 62, the fingerprint authentication unit 64, and the authentication data decoding unit 66 of the authentication unit 6. And the data from the operation section screen 52 are input. The operation unit screen control unit 51 is connected to the control unit 4 shown in FIG. 1 and outputs various input information to the control unit 4. Further, the operation section screen control section 51 is connected to the control section 4 shown in FIG. 1, and the code decoding section 62, the fingerprint authentication section 64, the authentication data decoding section 66, the input from the operation section screen 52 and the input from the control section 4 are performed. Operation unit screen 5 based on the instruction
2 (display) to the control unit screen 5
2 is notified to the control unit 4.

The operation section screen 52 is configured as a unit in which an operation screen of a liquid crystal display and a touch panel switch are integrated, and various inputs can be made by touching the surface of the operation section screen 52. , And outputs the input data to the operation unit screen control unit 51.

Next, a detailed operation of the present apparatus will be described.

First, when using the present apparatus, the operator
By operating the authentication unit 6, 1) authentication by inputting numeric keys (input of a password), 2) authentication by inputting a fingerprint, 3) IC
The user is authenticated by either of the card input authentications. Hereinafter, the authentications 1) to 3) will be sequentially described.

1) Authentication by numeric keypad (password input) When the operator inputs a predetermined password with the numeric keypad and finally turns on the "OK" key, the password input from the numeric keypad input section 61 is entered. Is the code decoder 6
2 is input. The code decoding unit 62 determines whether or not the input password matches a registered password, and the result of the determination is input to the operation unit screen control unit 51.
The discrimination result signal that it matches the registered password is
When input to the operation unit screen control unit 51, the operation unit screen control unit 51 controls the operation unit screen 52 and displays an operation screen shown in FIG.

On the other hand, when a determination result signal indicating that the password does not match the registered password is input to the operation unit screen control unit 51, the operation unit screen control unit 51
Is displayed, and an operation screen shown in FIG. 4 described later is displayed.

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a first operation screen of the color copying apparatus to which the control device of the present invention can be applied, and is displayed (output) on the operation section screen 52 shown in FIG. You.

In the figure, reference numeral 301 denotes a magnification display section, on which the set magnification is displayed. In FIG. 3, the same magnification (magnification 100%) is set, and the magnification cannot be changed.

A black-and-white switch 302 is pressed to select a black-and-white mode (black-and-white copying operation). Note that FIG.
, The monochrome mode (monochrome copying operation) is selected, and only the monochrome mode (monochrome copying operation) can be selected.

Reference numeral 303 denotes a number-of-copies display section for displaying the set number of copies. Note that in FIG.
The number of copies has been set, and the setting of the number of copies cannot be changed.

Reference numeral 304 denotes an end switch. When this switch is turned on (pressed), the operation section screen 52 is changed to a screen shown in FIG. 4 for requesting the authentication of the operator. 3
Reference numeral 05 denotes a start switch. When this switch is turned on (pressed), the copying process is started under the set copying conditions.

From the operation screen shown in FIG. 3, a monochrome copy mode (monochrome copy operation) is automatically set, and each time the start switch 305 is turned on (pressed), one monochrome copy operation can be performed.

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the second operation screen of the color copying apparatus to which the control device of the present invention can be applied, and is displayed (output) on the operation section screen 52 shown in FIG. You.

The operation screen shown in FIG. 4 is a screen indicating that the authentication of the operator is required. From this operation screen, the function of the color copier of the present apparatus cannot be used at all.

2) Authentication by Fingerprint Input Next, the operation when the operator performs authentication input of fingerprint information from the fingerprint reading unit 63 will be described.

When the operator places his / her finger on the fingerprint reading section 63, the fingerprint reading section 63 automatically starts reading fingerprint information and transmits the read data to the fingerprint authentication section 64.
To enter.

The fingerprint authentication section 64 determines whether or not the inputted fingerprint information matches the registered fingerprint information.
The determination result is input to the operation unit screen control unit 51. When a determination result signal indicating that the registered fingerprint information matches the registered fingerprint information is input to the operation unit screen control unit 51, the operation unit screen control unit 51 controls the operation unit screen 52 and operates the operation screen shown in FIG. Is displayed.

When a determination result signal indicating that the fingerprint information does not match the registered fingerprint information is input to the operation section screen control section 51, the operation section screen control section 51 controls the operation section screen 52, and FIG. Display the indicated operation screen.

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a third operation screen of the color copying apparatus to which the control device of the present invention can be applied, which is displayed (output) on the operation section screen 52 shown in FIG. You. The same components as those in FIG. 3 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

In the figure, reference numeral 501 denotes an enlargement switch;
Reference numeral 2 denotes a reduction switch. By pressing these switches, the copy magnification can be changed to a predetermined fixed magnification. Reference numeral 503 denotes a zoom switch. By pressing this switch, the copy magnification can be changed in 1% steps.

A color switch 504 is pressed to select a color copy mode (color copying operation). The color switch 504 and the monochrome switch 3
02 is such that only one of them is selected.

505 is a down switch, 506 is an up switch
By pressing these switches with switches,
The setting of the number of copies can be reduced or increased.

From the operation screen shown in FIG. 5, selection of the color / monochrome copy mode, setting of the number of copies by operating the down switch 505 and up switch 506, enlargement / reduction in addition to the same size copy, according to the setting of the operator. A mode and a zoom mode can be selected, and after setting the above-described operation conditions, the start switch 305 is turned on, so that a copy operation is performed according to the setting mode of the operator.

When the end switch 304 is turned on, the operation unit screen displays an operation requesting the authentication of the operator.
The screen is changed to the screen shown in.

3) Authentication by IC Card Input Next, the operation when the operator inserts the IC card into the IC card reader 65 and performs authentication input by the IC card will be described.

When the operator inserts the IC card into the IC card reader 65, the IC card reader 65 starts reading a data signal relating to authentication from the information storage area in the automatically inserted IC card. The data is input to the authentication data decryption unit 66. Authentication data decryption unit 6
At 6, it is determined whether or not the authentication data read from the IC card matches the registered authentication data, and the determination result is input to the operation unit screen control unit 51.

When a determination result signal indicating that the authentication data matches the registered authentication data is input to the operation unit screen control unit 51, the operation unit screen control unit 51 controls the operation unit screen 52, and the control unit screen 52 shown in FIG. The operation screen shown in FIG. 6 is displayed.

On the other hand, when the determination result signal indicating that the authentication data does not match the registered authentication data is input to the operation unit screen control unit 51, the operation unit screen control unit 51
2 is displayed to display the operation screen shown in FIG.

FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the fourth operation screen of the color copying apparatus to which the control device of the present invention can be applied, and is displayed (output) on the operation section screen 52 shown in FIG. You. Note that the same components as those in FIG. 5 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

In the figure, reference numeral 601 denotes a double-sided switch. By pressing this switch, a double-sided copying operation for forming a copy image on both sides of the recording medium can be set and canceled. Reference numeral 602 denotes a page continuous copying switch. By pressing this switch, a page continuous copying operation for forming a two-page spread copy image on two recording media can be set and canceled. Reference numeral 603 denotes a color adjustment switch. By pressing this switch, settings such as the color tone of a color copy image can be adjusted. Reference numeral 604 denotes a synthesis switch. By pressing this switch,
A composite copying operation for combining two images can be set and canceled.

From the operation screen shown in FIG. 6, selection of a color / monochrome copy mode, setting of the number of copies by operating an up switch and a down switch, an equal magnification / enlargement / reduction mode, and a zoom mode are performed according to an operator setting. In addition to the copy operation settings, additional functions such as double-sided copy, continuous page copy, color adjustment, and image composition can be set. After setting the above-described operation conditions, the start switch 305 is turned on (pressed) to set the operator. Control is performed so that a copy operation according to the mode is performed.

As described above, the operation screen shown in FIG. 6 includes selection of color / monochrome copy mode, setting of the number of copies, enlargement / reduction in addition to equal-size copy, selection of zoom mode, double-sided copy, page Additional functions such as continuous shooting, color adjustment, and image composition can be set, that is, full function operation can be performed.

When the end switch 304 is turned on (pressed), the operation unit screen is changed to the screen shown in FIG. 4 for requesting the authentication of the operator.

Hereinafter, referring to the flowchart of FIG.
A first control processing procedure in the control device of the present invention will be described.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of a first control processing procedure in the control device of the present invention.
Are executed based on a program stored in the ROM 51b or another storage medium (not shown) by the CPU 51a in the operation unit screen control unit 51 shown in FIG. In addition, S101 to S110 indicate each step.

First, in step S101, the process waits until there is some input to the operation unit screen control unit 51, and the authentication unit 6 performs an authentication process or the like by any one of the authentication methods 1) to 3). If there is an input, in step S102, it is determined whether or not the input of the password using the numeric keypad is a signal input indicating that the password matches the registered password. Is determined to be an input indicating that the user has been authenticated, and if the input indicates that the operator has been authenticated by ten-key input (password input), in step S103, the operation shown in FIG. A screen (an operation screen in which only one single-size monochrome copying operation instruction can be performed) is displayed on the operation unit screen 52, and the process returns to step S101.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S102 that the input is not an input indicating that the operator has been authenticated by the ten key input (password input), step S10 is performed.
In step 4, it is determined whether or not the input fingerprint information is an input of a signal indicating that the input fingerprint information matches the registered fingerprint information. It is determined whether or not the input is an input indicating that the operator has been authenticated by fingerprint input, and in step S105, the operation screen shown in FIG. 5 (selection of color / monochrome copy mode, setting of the number of copies, etc.) In addition to the double copy, enlargement / reduction and zoom mode can be selected) are displayed on the operation unit screen 52, and the process returns to the step S101.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S104 that the input does not indicate that the operator has been authenticated by fingerprint input, in step S106 the authentication data read from the IC card matches the registered authentication data. By determining whether or not the input is a signal indicating that the operator has been authenticated by the IC card input, it is determined whether or not the input is a signal indicating that the operator has been authenticated by the IC card input. In step S107, in the operation screen shown in FIG. 6 (selection of the color / monochrome copy mode, setting of the number of copies,
In addition to the reduction and zoom mode selection, additional function settings such as double-sided copying, continuous page copying, color adjustment, and image combining are possible (that is, full function operation is possible) is displayed on the operation unit screen 52, and the process returns to step S101.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S106 that the input is not an input indicating that the operator has been authenticated by inputting the IC card, then in step S108 the password input by the ten keys does not match the registered password. NG, a signal indicating that the input fingerprint information does not match the registered fingerprint information, a signal indicating that the authentication data read from the IC card does not match the registered authentication data, etc. It is determined whether or not the input indicating that the authentication has been performed or the input indicating that the end switch 304 has been turned on (pressed).
If the input indicates that the operation has been performed, step S109
In FIG. 4, the operation screen shown in FIG. 4 (a screen for requesting the authentication of the operator, and from this operation screen, the function of the color copying machine of the present apparatus cannot be used at all) is displayed on the operation section screen 52. Is displayed, and the process returns to step S101.

On the other hand, in step S108, the input is not an input indicating that the authentication is NG, and the end switch 304
If it is determined that the input is not an input indicating that is turned on, in step S110, a process according to the input instruction is performed, and the process returns to step S101.

As described above, in the case of performing an authentication operation by inputting a password (an authentication by inputting a numeric keypad) that does not have a very high security level, a limitation is imposed that only one copy is made for black-and-white copying. Therefore, even if you try to use this copier by illegally obtaining a personal identification number,
Damage can be minimized.

In a case where a color copying machine is shared with another department in an office, for example, fingerprint authentication (authentication by fingerprint input) or IC card Authentication (authentication by inputting an IC card) is enabled and members of other departments can be authenticated using a password, so that members of the department other than the management source want to use the copy machine urgently Can be controlled to permit use with limited functions.

The functions of the color copying machine that can be used by the above-described authentication methods are not limited to those described above. For example, a large-capacity storage device is provided,
A large number of image information can be stored in the storage device, and the image stored in the large-capacity storage device can be referenced on the operation unit screen 52 and printed by the printer 3 only when the fingerprint or IC card is approved. May be configured so that images in the mass storage device are “most important”, “important”,
The additional information indicating the importance such as “normal” is stored, and the image to which “most important” is added as the additional information can be referred to and printed only when the fingerprint or IC card is approved. Images with "important" added
The operation unit screen 52 may be configured to allow reference only with the approval of the personal identification number.

In this embodiment, a configuration is described in which the available functions are different between fingerprint authentication (authentication by fingerprint input) and IC card authentication (authentication by IC card input) with different operation screens. However, in both fingerprint authentication (authentication by fingerprint input) and IC card authentication (authentication by IC card input), the operation screen shown in FIG. 6 is displayed, and the usable functions are the same. May be configured.

Further, in the present embodiment, the color copier has been described as an example. However, the operation unit screen of the present invention is controlled based on the authentication method to control the available functions. It goes without saying that the operation of the screen control unit can be easily applied to other devices.

[Second Embodiment] In the first embodiment,
The authentication method and the operation screen of the copying machine for the authentication of the personal identification number by the numeric keypad input, the fingerprint authentication by the fingerprint input unit, and the authentication by using the IC card shown in FIG. 2 have been described. Instead, they may be configured to be used in combination. Hereinafter, the embodiment will be described.

When only a password is authenticated by inputting a numeric key, or when only fingerprint authentication is performed by inputting a fingerprint, the same operation as in the first embodiment is performed.
The operation when the authentication is performed by the IC card is controlled as follows.

When the operator inserts the IC card into the IC card reader 65, the IC card reader 65 automatically starts reading the data signal relating to the authentication from the information storage area in the inserted IC card. The read data is input to the authentication data decryption unit 66. The authentication data decoding unit 66 determines whether the authentication data read from the IC card matches the registered authentication data, and inputs the determination result to the operation unit screen control unit 51.

When a determination result signal indicating that it matches the authentication data is input to the operation section screen control section 51, the operation section screen control section 51 controls the operation section screen 52, and further inputs a password. Alternatively, an operation screen for requesting the operator to perform an operation for fingerprint authentication is displayed. This operation screen is shown in FIG. 8 described later.

According to the screen shown in FIG. 8, the operator inputs a predetermined password using the numeric keypad, and finally turns on the “OK” key, and the password input from the numeric keypad input unit 61 is used to decode the code. Is input to The code decoding unit 62 determines whether or not the input personal identification number matches the registered personal identification number, and the result of the determination is input to the operation unit screen control unit 51. The determination result signal indicating that the password matches the registered password is transmitted to the operation unit screen control unit 5.
1 is input to the operation unit screen control unit 51.
It is determined that both the authentication using the C card and the authentication using the personal identification number have been correctly performed, and the operation unit screen 52 is controlled.
The operation screen shown in FIG. 6 is displayed. When a determination result signal indicating that the password does not match the registered password is input to the operation unit screen control unit 51, the operation unit screen control unit 5
1 displays the operation screen shown in FIG. 4 and requests the operator to perform a correct authentication operation.

On the other hand, when the operator places his / her finger on the fingerprint reading unit 63 according to the operation screen shown in FIG. 8, the fingerprint reading unit 63 automatically starts reading the fingerprint information and transfers the read data to the fingerprint. Input to the authentication unit 64. The fingerprint authentication unit 64 determines whether the input fingerprint information matches the registered fingerprint information, and inputs the determination result to the operation unit screen control unit 51.

When a determination result signal indicating that the fingerprint information matches the registered fingerprint information is input to the operation unit screen control unit 51, the operation unit screen control unit 51 performs both the authentication using the IC card and the authentication using the fingerprint. It is determined that the operation has been performed correctly, the operation unit screen 52 is controlled, and the operation screen shown in FIG. 6 is displayed. When a determination result signal indicating that it does not match the registered fingerprint information is input to the operation unit screen control unit 51, the operation unit screen control unit 51 displays the operation screen shown in FIG. Request correct authentication operation.

FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a fifth operation screen of the color copying apparatus to which the control device of the present invention can be applied, which is displayed (output) on the operation section screen 52 shown in FIG. You.

The operation screen shown in FIG.
Alternatively, this screen indicates that fingerprint authentication is requested, and the function of the color copying machine of the present apparatus cannot be used at all from this operation screen.

Hereinafter, referring to the flowchart of FIG.
The second control processing procedure in the control device of the present invention will be described.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the second control processing procedure in the control device of the present invention.
Are executed based on a program stored in the ROM 51b or another storage medium (not shown) by the CPU 51a in the operation unit screen control unit 51 shown in FIG. S101 to S106, S108 to S110, S20
Reference numeral 1 denotes each step, and the same steps as those in FIG. 7 are denoted by the same step numbers, and a description thereof will be omitted.

In step S106, it is determined whether or not the authentication data read from the IC card is the input of a signal indicating that the authentication data matches the registered authentication data. It is determined whether or not the input indicates that the operator has been authenticated. If the operator has been authenticated by the IC card, the multiple authentication process shown in FIG.
It returns to the process of 01.

Hereinafter, a third control processing procedure in the control device of the present invention will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

FIG. 10 shows a third embodiment of the control device according to the present invention.
10 is a flowchart showing an example of the control processing procedure, which corresponds to the multiple authentication processing shown in step S201 in FIG.
This is executed by the CPU 51a in the operation unit screen control unit 51 shown in FIG. 2 based on a program stored in the ROM 51b or another storage medium (not shown).
In addition, S301 to S306 indicate each step.

First, in step S301, the operation screen shown in FIG. 8 (the screen for requesting the input of the personal identification number or the fingerprint authentication) is displayed on the operation section screen 52.
In 02, the operation unit screen control unit 51 waits until there is any input, and if there is any input by the authentication unit 6 performing the authentication process or the like by the authentication method 1) or 2), in step S303, To determine whether or not a signal indicating that the input of the security code using the numeric keypad matches the registered security code or a signal indicating that the input fingerprint information matches the registered fingerprint information is input. It is determined whether or not the input indicates that the operator has been authenticated by numeric keypad input (password input) or that the operator has been authenticated by fingerprint input.
It is determined whether or not the input indicates that the operator has been authenticated by the ten-key input (password input) or that the operator has been authenticated by the fingerprint input, and that the operator has been authenticated by the ten-key input (password input). If the input indicates that the operation has been performed, in step S304, the operation screen shown in FIG. In addition, additional functions such as double-sided copying, continuous page copying, color adjustment, and image composition can be set) are displayed on the operation unit screen 52, and the process returns to the flowchart of FIG.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S303 that the operator has not been authenticated by the ten-key input (password input) or that the operator has been authenticated by the fingerprint input, then in step S305, the ten-key input is performed. The operator authentication such as a signal indicating that the input of the personal identification number does not match the registered personal identification number, a signal indicating that the input fingerprint information does not match the registered fingerprint information, etc.
It is determined whether or not the input indicates that the input is G. If the input indicates that the authentication is NG, in step S306, the operation screen shown in FIG. It is not possible to use any functions of the color copier of this machine from this operation screen.)
Is displayed on the operation section screen 52, and the process returns to the flowchart of FIG.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S305 that the input is not an input indicating that the authentication is NG, the process returns to step S302.

As described above, when both the authentication using the IC card and the authentication using the personal identification number, or both the authentication using the IC card and the authentication using the fingerprint are correctly performed, the operation unit screen control unit shown in FIG. The operation unit screen is displayed, and the operator can use the color copier.

As described above, the combination of the IC card authentication and the password or the combination of the IC card authentication and the fingerprint authentication controls the screen of the operation unit of the apparatus to determine whether the operation of the apparatus is enabled. By controlling
It is possible to prevent a person who is not originally permitted to operate by improperly operating the apparatus by improperly acquiring an IC card and impersonating an authorized operator.

After the authentication by the IC card is performed, if the authentication operation using the personal identification number or the fingerprint authentication shown in FIG. 8 is not correctly performed, the operation screen shown in FIG. 4 is displayed. Instead of prohibiting the operation, the operation screen shown in FIG. 3 may be displayed, and control may be performed so as to permit use of the limited functions of the apparatus.

The apparatus to which the present invention is applied is not limited to a color copier, but may be a multifunction machine of facsimile, copier, scanner, printer, or a computer, and may have a plurality of functions. It is obvious that any general data processing device can be used. For example, when the control device of the present invention is applied to a personal computer, it may be configured such that only predetermined software can be used or only a predetermined folder can be read / written according to an authentication method.

Further, the authentication method applied to the present invention is as follows.
The present invention is not limited to the authentication method shown in the present embodiment, but includes a voiceprint and an iris (a thin film on a disk having a pupil in the center between the cornea and the lens of the eyeball, so-called eye color).
It is self-evident that any method that can authenticate the operator, such as a method using human characteristics such as a method using the characteristics of input characters by handwritten character recognition or the like, can be applied.

In each of the above embodiments, 1) to
3) Depending on which authentication method of the single authentication method or the authentication method combining any two of them is used, the display of the instructable function on the operation unit screen 52 is controlled and used. The configuration for controlling the operation mode has been described. However, when the operation unit 5 includes various hard keys and the various operation modes can be instructed by the hard keys, the operation unit 5 is determined depending on which authentication method has been used to authenticate the operator. A configuration may be adopted in which a usable operation mode is controlled by ignoring an instruction from one or more predetermined hard keys among the above hard keys (by controlling not to notify the control unit 4). Alternatively, the present invention can be applied to a combination of controlling the display of usable functions on the operation unit screen 52 and ignoring instructions from hard keys.

Further, in the above embodiment, the authentication using the IC card has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to the IC card, but may be a magnetic card or a card on which a barcode is printed.

Therefore, for example, the first operation mode (black and white copy mode, one copy) is enabled at the time of authentication by the first authentication method (password input), and at the time of authentication by the second authentication method (input of fingerprint). Enables a second operation mode (color copy mode, multiple copy) in addition to the first operation mode, and enables a third operation mode (full-function operation) during authentication by a third authentication method (IC card) In the case where the first to third authentication methods are single, an operation mode in which functions are limited is set, and in the case of authentication in which a plurality of the first to third authentication methods are combined, full-function operation is enabled. As described above, by controlling the usable operation modes, the functions that can be used are restricted by the performed authentication method (the functions permitted to be used are controlled), and the security of the device is improved. It can be.

As described above, in the color copying machine to which the control device of the present invention can be applied, the operation section screen control section 51 controls the operation section screen 52 of the color copying machine based on the authentication result of the authentication section 6. By doing so, it is possible to limit the functions that can be operated by the user.
It becomes possible for the operator to change available functions.

In the above embodiment, when the security level is not so high and authentication is performed by inputting a password, only a black and white copy can be used even in a color copying machine capable of color output. This makes it possible to restrict the use of color copying, which is more costly, even if an unauthorized person obtains a password and attempts to use the color copying machine illegally. In addition, it is possible to exert an effect in suppressing counterfeiting of securities and the like.

Further, when a plurality of authentications using different methods are performed, a function as a color copying machine or
By controlling to allow the use of more advanced editing functions, it is possible to prevent unauthorized use of the device even if the IC card is improperly obtained and spoofed by the user. It is possible to realize an advanced security system.

Therefore, by restricting the usable operation modes of the device in accordance with the method for permitting the operation of the device (authentication method of the operator), the security at the time of operating the device is improved and the usability is improved. A good security system can be provided.

The present invention can be applied to an operating device which comprises the operating unit 5 and the authentication unit 6 shown in FIG. 2 and which can designate an operation mode for a predetermined device.

Hereinafter, the configuration of a data processing program readable by the control device according to the present invention will be described with reference to a memory map shown in FIG.

FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining a memory map of a storage medium for storing various data processing programs readable by the control device according to the present invention.

Although not shown, information for managing a group of programs stored in the storage medium, such as version information and a creator, is also stored, and information dependent on the OS or the like on the program reading side, such as a program, An icon or the like for identification display may also be stored.

Further, data dependent on various programs is also managed in the directory. Also, if the programs and data to be installed are compressed,
A program for decompressing may also be stored.

The functions shown in FIG. 7, FIG. 9, and FIG. 10 in this embodiment may be executed by a host computer by a program installed from the outside. In this case, the present invention is applied even when a group of information including a program is supplied to the output device from a storage medium such as a CD-ROM, a flash memory, or an FD, or from an external storage medium via a network. Things.

As described above, the storage medium storing the program code of the software for realizing the functions of the above-described embodiment is supplied to the system or the apparatus, and the computer (or CPU or MP) of the system or the apparatus is supplied.
It goes without saying that the object of the present invention is also achieved when U) reads and executes the program code stored in the storage medium.

In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the novel function of the present invention, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention.

Examples of a storage medium for supplying the program code include a floppy (registered trademark) disk, a hard disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk,
D-ROM, CD-R, DVD-ROM, magnetic tape,
A non-volatile memory card, ROM, EEPROM, silicon disk, or the like can be used.

When the computer executes the readout program code, not only the functions of the above-described embodiment are realized, but also the OS (Operating System) running on the computer based on the instruction of the program code. ) And the like perform part or all of the actual processing, and the processing realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments.

Further, after the program code read from the storage medium is written into a memory provided in a function expansion board inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer, based on the instruction of the program code, The CPU provided in the function expansion board or function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing,
It goes without saying that a case where the function of the above-described embodiment is realized by the processing is also included.

Further, the present invention may be applied to a system composed of a plurality of devices or an apparatus composed of one device. Needless to say, the present invention can be applied to a case where the present invention is achieved by supplying a program to a system or an apparatus. In this case, by reading a storage medium storing a program represented by software for achieving the present invention into the system or the apparatus, the system or the apparatus can enjoy the effects of the present invention. .

Further, by downloading and reading out a program represented by software for achieving the present invention from a database on a network by a communication program, the system or apparatus can be
It is possible to enjoy the effects of the present invention.

[0115]

As described above, the first embodiment according to the present invention is described.
According to the invention, the control unit limits the usable operation modes based on which authentication method the operator authentication unit capable of authenticating the operator by a plurality of different authentication methods has authenticated the operator. Therefore, it is possible to limit the functions that can be operated by the user, and to change the functions that can be used by the operator according to the security level of the authentication method.

According to the second aspect of the present invention, the operating unit control means determines the operator based on which of the plurality of authentication means for authenticating the operator using different authentication methods. Since the operation modes that can be instructed from the operation unit are different, it is possible to change the functions that can be used by the operator according to the security level of the authentication method.

According to the third, ninth, and eleventh aspects of the present invention, a function display that can be instructed on the operation input screen based on which of the plurality of different authentication methods has been used to authenticate the operator. And the operation modes that can be instructed are restricted according to the authentication method, so that it is possible to change the functions available to the operator according to the security level of the authentication method.

According to the fourth invention, the plurality of authentication means are password authentication means for authenticating an operator based on the input password, fingerprint authentication means for authenticating the operator based on the input fingerprint information, It includes a card authentication unit that authenticates the operator based on the information read from the card. Therefore, the functions that can be used by the operator according to the security levels of authentication using a password, authentication using a fingerprint, and authentication using a predetermined card are included. Can be changed.

According to the fifth, tenth, and twelfth aspects, the case where the authentication is performed by the first authentication means (method), the first authentication means (method), and the second operator authentication means are provided. In the case where authentication is performed by both (method), the function display that can be instructed by the operation input screen is different, and the operation mode that can be instructed according to the authentication method is limited, so that the security level is relatively high. It is possible to change the functions that can be used by the operator according to each security level of authentication using one authentication method and authentication using two authentication methods having relatively high security levels.

[0120] According to the sixth aspect, the operation input screen control means is more operable than the case where the first operator authentication means authenticates the operator. When the authentication is performed by both the second operator authentication means, the number of operation modes in which the functions that can be instructed from the operation input screen are displayed more and the use is permitted is increased, so that an unauthorized operator can Even if one authentication with a relatively low security level is cleared by an unauthorized means, it is possible to restrict functions and restrict unauthorized use by an unauthorized operator of the apparatus.

According to the seventh invention, the control device is a color copying machine, and the operation input screen control means performs black and white copying when authentication is performed by the first operator authentication means. An operation mode can be designated, and when authentication is performed by both the first operator authentication means and the second operator authentication means, a color copy operation mode can be designated in addition to the black and white copy operation mode. Therefore, the unauthorized operator is relatively low in security level 1
If the two authentications are cleared by unauthorized means, the functions that can be used even in color copiers are limited to black and white copying functions, and more costly use of color copies and illegal counterfeiting of securities etc. Can be suppressed.

According to the eighth aspect, the second operator authentication means authenticates the operator based on the information read from the IC card. Therefore, when the authentication using the IC card is performed, another authentication is performed. Therefore, even if the operator illegally obtains the IC card, it is possible to restrict the functions and restrict the unauthorized use by the unauthorized operator of the apparatus.

Therefore, the functions usable by the operator are changed according to the security level to improve the security at the time of operating the apparatus, and it is possible to provide a secure and easy-to-use security system. It works.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a color copying apparatus to which a control device according to a first embodiment of the present invention can be applied.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an operation unit and an authentication unit shown in FIG. 1 in detail.

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a first operation screen of a color copying apparatus to which the control device of the present invention can be applied.

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a second operation screen of a color copying apparatus to which the control device of the present invention can be applied.

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a third operation screen of a color copying apparatus to which the control device of the present invention can be applied.

FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a fourth operation screen of a color copying apparatus to which the control device of the present invention can be applied.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a first control processing procedure in the control device of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a fifth operation screen of a color copying apparatus to which the control device of the present invention can be applied.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a second control processing procedure in the control device of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a third control processing procedure in the control device of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a memory map of a storage medium that stores various data processing programs that can be read by the control device according to the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

 Reference Signs List 4 control unit 5 operation unit 6 authentication unit 61 numeric keypad 62 code decoding unit 63 fingerprint reading unit 64 fingerprint authentication unit 65 IC card reader 66 authentication data decoding unit 51 operation unit screen control unit 51a CPU 51b ROM 51c RAM 52 operation unit screen

Claims (12)

[Claims] 1. A control device operable in a plurality of operation modes, wherein: an operator authentication unit capable of authenticating an operator by a plurality of different authentication methods; and the operator authentication unit authenticates the operator by any of the authentication methods. A control unit for restricting an available operation mode based on whether the operation is performed. 2. A control device comprising: an operation unit capable of instructing an operation mode of an apparatus; and a control unit that controls operation of the apparatus based on the operation mode instructed by the operation unit. A plurality of authentication units for authenticating a user, and an operation unit control unit for changing an operation mode instructable from the operation unit based on which of the authentication units has performed authentication of the operator. Characteristic control device. 3. An operation input screen capable of instructing an operation mode of the apparatus by instructing a function display on the screen, and a control unit controlling operation of the apparatus based on the operation mode instructed from the operation input screen. A plurality of authentication units each of which authenticates an operator by a different authentication method, and a function display instructable by the operation input screen based on which of the authentication units has authenticated the operator. And an operation input screen control means for limiting an operation mode instructable according to the authentication method. 4. A password authentication means for authenticating an operator based on an input password, a fingerprint authentication means for authenticating an operator based on input fingerprint information, and information read from a predetermined card. 4. The control device according to claim 3, further comprising a card authentication unit that authenticates an operator by using a key. 5. An operation input screen capable of instructing an operation mode of the apparatus by instructing a function display on the screen, and a control unit controlling operation of the apparatus based on the operation mode instructed from the operation input screen. A first operator authenticating means for authenticating an operator; a second operator authenticating means for authenticating the operator by an authentication method different from the first operator authenticating means; An instruction is given on the operation input screen when authentication is performed by the first operator authentication unit and when authentication is performed by both the first operator authentication unit and the second operator authentication unit. A control device, comprising: an operation input screen control unit that limits the operation modes that can be instructed according to the authentication method, by changing the possible function displays. 6. The operation input screen control means, wherein:
When the authentication is performed by both the first operator authentication means and the second operator authentication means, the operation input is performed more easily than when the operator authentication is performed by the operator authentication means. 6. The control device according to claim 5, wherein the number of operation modes in which more functions that can be instructed on the screen are displayed and use is permitted is increased. 7. The control device is a color copying machine, and the operation input screen control means is capable of instructing a black-and-white copying operation mode when authentication is performed by the first operator authentication means. When both the first operator authentication means and the second operator authentication means perform authentication, a color copy operation mode can be designated in addition to a black-and-white copy operation mode. The control device according to claim 5, wherein 8. The control device according to claim 5, wherein said second operator authentication means authenticates the operator based on information read from an IC card. 9. An operation input screen capable of instructing an operation mode of the apparatus by instructing a function display on a screen, and a control unit controlling operation of the apparatus based on the operation mode instructed from the operation input screen. In the control method of the control device having: an authentication step of authenticating an operator by any one of a plurality of different authentication methods; and based on which of the authentication methods the operator has been authenticated, by the operation input screen. An operation input screen displaying step of differentiating the instructable function displays and limiting the instructable operation modes according to the authentication method. 10. An operation input screen capable of instructing an operation mode of the apparatus by instructing a function display on the screen, a control unit controlling operation of the apparatus based on the operation mode instructed from the operation input screen. An operator authentication step of authenticating an operator by a first authentication method or a second authentication method different from the first authentication method and the first authentication method; When the authentication is performed by the first authentication method, and when the authentication is performed by both the first authentication method and the second authentication method, the function display that can be instructed by the operation input screen is displayed. An operation input screen display step of limiting an operation mode that can be instructed according to an authentication method. 11. An operation input screen capable of instructing an operation mode of the apparatus by instructing a function display on the screen, and a control unit controlling operation of the apparatus based on the operation mode instructed from the operation input screen. A control device having an authentication step of authenticating an operator by any one of a plurality of different authentication methods, and instructing by the operation input screen based on which of the authentication methods the operator has been authenticated. A computer-readable storage medium storing a program for executing an operation input screen displaying step of limiting an operation mode that can be instructed according to an authentication method with different function displays. 12. An operation input screen capable of instructing an operation mode of the apparatus by instructing a function display on the screen, a control unit controlling operation of the apparatus based on the operation mode instructed from the operation input screen. An operator authentication step of authenticating an operator by a first authentication method or a second authentication method different from the first authentication method and the first authentication method; The function display that can be instructed on the operation input screen is different between when authentication is performed by the authentication method and when authentication is performed by both the first authentication method and the second authentication method, An operation input screen display step of restricting an operation mode instructable according to an authentication method; and a computer-readable storage medium storing a program for executing the operation input screen display step.